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A large timber-framed window and sliding glass door connects the inside and outside living spaces.

The dining table is from Spanish furniture brand Marlot Baus—and features an oak pedestal base that allows everyone to sit comfortably in the banquette.

Though the ceiling looks spectacular, it’s really crafted from standard 2’x2’ boards from Home Depot. LED light strips enhance the impact. “When you explain the method to someone, they’re like, ‘that’s it?!’” Laughs Losada-Amor.

“I consider light to actually be one of the materials here,” says Losada-Amor. Skylights (including one in the shower) offer ventilation as well as light.

Nikki and her mom can enjoy one another's company in the kitchen after a short walk across the garden.

"We meticulously plan for how light affects spaces. We model the spaces and test the different lighting throughout the day,

The living room is right off the kitchen, and has views of the garden.

The overhead windows cast light and shadows above the kitchen, which is lined in lower drawers for easy access.

A multipurpose room—used for everything from client presentations to tea parties—includes the couple’s workstations at one end. “We welcome clients here,” says Mai. “Usually they’re surprised at our small home office.”

Mai and Le did all of the landscape and hardscape work themselves.

A patio of permeable grating sits at the center of Le Pham and Mai Tran’s live/work ADU in Albany, California. The couple, who formed their architectural practice, 3R Studio, in 2014, bonded over their mutual love of architect Peter Zumthor’s designs while working together at a firm in Vietnam.